There’s not much denying it: motorbikes are cool. It’s plain and simple. The feeling of the wind ripping past you as rolling hills and countryside flash by, can be one of the most exhilarating experiences ever. As well as being an exciting, liberating ride, it can also be a brilliant mode of transport in general. But getting started with riding motorcycles isn’t a simple task. There are many things to think about before you jump on a bike and hit the road, so check out our simple beginner’s guide to get you started.
Decide What You Want To Ride
Choosing a bike is a bigger decision than you might think. This choice will entirely depend on what you want this bike for, whether it’s local transportation, long journeys, sport biking, or just for being a general bike enthusiast and collector. There are so many different motorcycle styles you can choose so make sure you do your research before making a choice.
Learning How To Ride
This is probably the most important step here as failing to pass your test is going to cut your new passion short. While experienced riders may make riding a motorcycle look like a piece of cake, we can assure you it’s by no means as easy as it might seem. There is a lot of elements involved in riding, including balance and coordination as well as having a generally good working knowledge of how these bikes work. As well as this, you’ll want to get a great idea of the law and the rules of the road for bikes too. It’s important to find a quality motorcycle training school such as North London Motorcycle Training for some professional lessons. Not only can motorcycle tests be difficult, but you’ll want to be sure you’ve got the skills necessary to stay safe on the road, as well as to keep others safe too, so finding somewhere that offers the full range of training that you’ll require to pass your test is essential.
Take It Slow
Once you do pass your test, it can be tempting to get straight on your bike and take to the roads. But remember, you have only just passed your test, and that means the real training starts here. You’ll continue to learn to ride a bike by making small mistakes and generally getting used to your bike, so just remember that accidents can still happen, and are actually more likely to happen now that you’re out on your own. Keep your wits about you, follow the rules of the road, and be a respectful and responsible rider.
Getting The Right Gear
One of the most important things about riding a motorcycle is protection. If you look at it this way, you’re sitting on top of a combination of metal and rubber, that can reach speeds in excess of 60mph. There’s a reason that responsible bikers wear protective clothing and helmets when riding, as this can be incredibly dangerous. You’ll want to get yourself all of the essential safety gear, including a full helmet, bike leathers, and appropriate footwear to wear every time you’re out on your motorcycle. Don’t skip out on putting this gear on as it could very well save your life.